Obituary for Hendrina van den Braak

1932 - 2019
With great sadness the family of Hendrina "Henny" van den Braak (née Hoens) announces her death in Moncton, NB on May 9, 2019 at the age of 86.

Born in Eindhoven, the Netherlands on June 6, 1932, Henny was the daughter of the late Arnoldus and Petronella (Brunas) Hoens. She had three brothers, the late Piet, the late Wim and Harrie. Henny grew up during the occupation of the Netherlands in World War II. She was active in the Girl Guides and managed a bicycle shop until her marriage to Jan (John) on November 24, 1953 at the age of 21. Six days later, they sailed from Rotterdam on the S.S. Rijndam, destined for Canada. Their arrival on December 6, 1953 is commemorated with a plaque at Pier 21 in Halifax, NS.

Henny and John lived in River John, Amherst, Halifax, Bedford, finally settling in Moncton. They were active in the Scouting movement, made good friends, enjoyed camping and travelled extensively throughout Canada, the United States and Europe, returning many times to the Netherlands. Henny was known for her gardening, sewing, knitting, and many fruit breads. She enjoyed reading, especially history and geography. After 55 years together, John predeceased Henny in 2008. Henny continued to live in their home, later moving to People’s Park Tower and finally McNair Manor.

Henny (Oma to her grandchildren) is survived by her daughters Judy (Evan Smith) and Karen (Norm Raynard), her grandchildren Sarah Smith (Jet), Laura Smith (Thomas), Norman Raynard (Emily) and Jonathan Raynard, her brother Harrie Hoens, as well as extended family in Canada, England, and the Netherlands.

The family wishes to acknowledge the excellent care and kindness given by the staff and residents at McNair Manor.

A visitation with the family will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Friday, May 17, 2019 at Fergusons Funeral Home, 1657 Mountain Road, Moncton, NB (858-1995). A private family service will be held at a later date.

If desired, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, Alzheimer’s Society or a charity of choice. Online condolences may be shared at www.fergusonsfuneralhome.com